Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery
🌤 Weather at Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38–75 °F | 64–88 °F | 38–80 °F | 27–49 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Branson Airport, 7 mi away, elevation 1,286 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery is located in Missouri in Taney County and is managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, not by Missouri’s state park system. Spanning 1,011 acres, the park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Missouri |
| County | Taney County |
| Park Size | 1,011 acres |
Location & Getting There
Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery is located Missouri. The park’s coordinates are 36.5973, -93.3047.
Things to Do
This is the Missouri Department of Conservation’s largest trout-rearing hatchery, and its Conservation Education Center, opened in 2024, has a 7,500-gallon aquarium and a video that shows how the trout are raised. About three miles of trails cross the hatchery grounds, some with fishing access to Lake Taneycomo, and a concrete boat ramp puts you on the lake. There are two first-come, first-served picnic areas. Camping and target shooting are not allowed. Source: Missouri Department of Conservation, as of October 2026.
Best Time to Visit
The grounds are open daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. The education center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays and Mondays (as of October 2026).
Visitor Tips
The hatchery and its Conservation Education Center are run by the Missouri Department of Conservation, not by Missouri State Parks. The grounds are open from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and the education center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. About three miles of trails cross the hatchery grounds, some with fishing access to Lake Taneycomo. Cell service is limited in the Ozarks backcountry.
Explore More Missouri State Parks
Looking for state parks in Missouri? Discover them in our Best State Parks in Missouri guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery — below Table Rock Dam — is Missouri’s largest trout hatchery, producing over 1 million rainbow and brown trout annually. Bald eagles concentrate below the dam in winter. Osprey dive for fish. Great blue herons stalk the raceways.
Nearby Attractions
Branson — adjacent — has entertainment venues and Silver Dollar City. Table Rock Lake — adjacent. Dogwood Canyon — 20 miles south. Roaring River SP — 30 miles south.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Table Rock State Park Missouri (a short drive away) or Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area (within about an hour’s drive).
Park Location
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